It was a typical Friday morning in the heart of Kamjong district, in the North Eastern state of Manipur. I was there to install signages, a routine task intended to sensitise locals about the endangered status of pangolins. Unbeknownst to me, this seemingly typical day in the field was about to become one of the most cherished days of my life.

Pangolin awareness signage installed in the local market in Kamjong, Manipur | Photo by Chingrisoror Rumthao/ WTI

As I affixed a signage highlighting the plight of pangolins in the main market of Kamjong, a man approached me with concern etched on his face. He began talking about the species and shared an unexpected revelation: his brother had recently found a juvenile Chinese pangolin and had taken it under his care. Intrigued and concerned, I listened closely.

He went on to explain that during the ongoing sowing season, his brother had ventured out to their paddy field. While preparing the field for planting, he stumbled upon the young pangolin, alone and vulnerable. The sight of the creature, so far from its natural habitat and without its mother, stirred a deep sense of compassion within him. Worried for its safety, he gently picked up the pangolin and brought it home.

His family was initially taken aback but their hearts were soon filled with compassion for the small animal. They decided to care for it, providing it with food, shelter, and affection. The pangolin quickly became part of the family, treated with the same love and attention as a child. However, despite their growing attachment, the family knew that their home was not where the pangolin truly belonged. It deserved a chance to return to the wild and live the life it was meant for.

Understanding their concern and genuine intentions, I accompanied the man to verify the situation and facilitate the pangolin’s release. As we drove to his house, my mind buzzed with anticipation. In my five years of working for pangolins, I had never encountered one in such a unique context. This was a rare opportunity to see a live pangolin up close and to play a part in its return to the wild.

The juvenile pangolin was being cared for by the farmer and his family| Photo by Chingrisoror Rumthao/ WTI

Upon arriving, I witnessed their affection for the pangolin which was evident in the way they spoke and cared for it. The young pangolin appeared healthy and curious. During our conversation, I emphasised the ecological importance of pangolins and the necessity of returning the animal to its natural habitat.

With the pangolin safely under my watch, I coordinated with the Forest Department (FD), whom I had notified beforehand about the situation. Together, we planned for its release and ensured a preliminary medical examination and behavioural observation. The pangolin was confirmed to be in good health, with no visible wounds or bruises. Its curiosity and vitality reassured us that it was fit for release.

The same evening, the Kamjong District Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and our team released the pangolin back into its natural habitat. This act of compassion and responsibility was a ray of hope amidst the grim reality faced by pangolins in the landscape.

Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked species in the world. India is home to the Indian pangolin (IUCN status- Endangered) and Chinese pangolin (IUCN status-Critically endangered). Both species are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and included in Appendix I of CITES.

Yet, their population is rapidly declining due to rampant poaching for their scales and meat which are traded globally. As part of the Countering Pangolin Trafficking project by WTI which is supported by the Wildlife Conservation Network’s Pangolin Crisis Fund, a successful ban on hunting pangolins was implemented at the community level across eight villages, namely Hunpun, Somdal, Chalou, Ngainga and Khuingai from Ukhrul district. Ngari Khullen, Ngari Khunou and Chatric from Senapati district.

The signages are helping to spread awareness and encourage community involvement in protecting pangolins in the state

As I watched the pangolin disappear into the underbrush, I felt a profound sense of fulfilment. This small creature, once lost and vulnerable, had been given a second chance. The family’s selfless decision to part with the pangolin, despite their growing attachment, was a testament to their compassion and understanding of wildlife conservation. This remarkable day in Kamjong district was not just about rescuing a pangolin; it was about hope, kindness, and the enduring bond between humans and nature.

Chingrisoror Rumthao is a Field officer working with WTI’s Wildlife Crime Control Division